The role of traditional leaders in postapartheid local governance in South Africa : a case study of the Bapong 2 community, North West Province, South Africa

Abstract

This study explores the role played by traditional leaders in post-apartheid local governance of South Africa. Due to South Africa's history, and the power that the apartheid regime instilled on traditional leaders, the country has a unique situation. This study is based on the premise that the customary system of traditional leaders is facing extinction and is not fully acknowledged by government. The overall aim of the study was to analyse the role of traditional leaders, understand and analyse the legislative framework surrounding the institution of traditional leadership at large. The researcher contends that traditional leaders are one of Africa's long-standing heritage and that their system of governance is important to many rural communities around Africa as a whole and South Africa in particular. This is because there is a huge link between indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) and governance. IKS is crucial in terms of decision-making in rural communities, thus indigenous knowledge (IK) plays a significant role in justifying and legitimising the role of traditional leaders in local governance, especially in rural communities. A study on traditional leaders is not new and to many, it is a sensitive one. A mixed methodological approach was used in conducting the study. In-depth interviews and the "lekgotla" method were used to collect data from respondents and participants. Secondary data was also obtained from books, journals and government documents and analysed to make sense of the data. The study revealed that many people, especially those still residing in rural communities, have confidence in traditional leaders and still view their institution as relevant even in modem times. To many rural communities, these leaders are a source of support and development since they are exposed to the way of life of such communities and know what needs to be developed. This study, if accessed, is expected to raise debates around the country as to how traditional leaders contribute in the country's economic and social development. Furthermore, issues of how traditional leaders could be fully incorporated in formal governance of local areas around South Africa are also highlighted in the study. The study focused on the Bapong 2 Community of the North West Province. This community is mainly rural and has been led by traditional leaders from time immemorial.